It was a beautiful summer's day in July when members were thrilled to visit the magnificent house and grounds of Highclere Castle in Newbury.

Their website found at http://www.highclerecastle.co.uk says this about the Castle:

“Highclere Castle has been home to the Carnarvon family since 1679. Built on an ancient site, the original house was recorded in the Domesday Book.

“The present day Castle was designed in 1842 by Sir Charles Barry, the architect also responsible for building the Houses of Parliament in Westminster.

“The Castle’s history also includes a fascinating connection with ancient Egypt, as the 5th Earl, with Howard Carter, discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun in the Valley of the Kings in 1922. The Castle now houses an exhibition that commemorates this historic event, including some rare antiquities from the 5th Earl's earlier Egyptian excavations.

“Today, the 8th Earl and Countess have opened a new Egyptian Exhibition throughout the cellars of the Castle to celebrate the 5th Earl’s achievements.

“Downton Abbey, the major new drama series from ITV was filmed on location here at Highclere Castle. A second series of this very successful production is now being filmed at Highclere Castle and will be screened in Autumn 2011.

“The Castle is set in 1,000 acres of sweeping parkland. This was designed for the 1st Earl of Carnarvon by the famous 18th century landscape gardener Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown.”

We weren't allowed to take photographs inside the building but here is just a taste of the wonderful grounds and gardens. Photos by Veronica Smith.

Off the coach and ...	... what a sight ..
... this magnificent building ...	... beckons enticingly.
In the grounds we find ...	... Jackdaw's Castle.
The flower borders ...	... are impressive ...
... and a pleasure to wander round.	The lavender walk is something to remember ...
... as are the ...	... many other blooms ...
... attracting our attention ...	... and encouraging further exploration.

The Castle attracts visitors who have seen some of its splendour while watching the programme “Downton Abbey” and they are not disappointed. This aspect of its history is tastefully mentioned but not intrusively so those who are not fans of the programme are not distracted in their enjoyment of the visit. There simply wasn't time to take in everything on offer so it is hoped that a return trip will be organised soon.